HH hails men and women in uniform

UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema has hailed the role the men and women in uniform have played in shaping the destiny of Zambia.

Mr Hichilema notes that the men and women in uniform have greatly contributed to keeping the peace and unity the nation has enjoyed for the last 50 years.

He says by remaining resolute in upholding the democratic values of the country they have shaped the destiny of Zambia.

Mr Hichilema however says he is saddened to hear of the number of challenges that security personnel face in both their operations and welfare provision.

He states that such challenges must be tackled head on by government who have an obligation to support them.

The UPND leader says the biggest challenge for many has been the removal of food rations at a time when the price of mealie meal and essential commodities have more than doubled and even tripled.

Mr Hichilema says the UPND in government will take bold steps to alleviate hunger in the security camps.

He says he is confident that through his party’s policies to better manage the economy and proper investment in agriculture they will also be able to secure greater reductions in the food price in the medium to long term.

He adds that the proposal for government to set up a housing scheme where houses are provided to service personnel and they pay for the cost over a period out of theur wages is reasonable and deserve serious consideration.

Mr Hichilema has further pledged the UPND’s commitment to providing the men and women in uniform with further education and skills training so that they are well equipped and supported to perform their duties.

This is according to a statement issued by the UPND media unit.